Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a delightful dish that warms the soul and satisfies appetites. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy family dinners. With ground beef, beans, and a robust blend of spices, this chili offers a rich flavor profile that simmers beautifully in the slow cooker. Enjoy the convenience of preparing it ahead of time while indulging in delicious homemade goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal active cooking time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the hard work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and tender beef creates a hearty dish that’s bursting with robust flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for serving as a main dish or as a topping for nachos, baked potatoes, or even hot dogs.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields 10 servings, making it ideal for parties or meal prep.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out proteins or add extra veggies to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Classic Slow Cooker Chili effortlessly, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring flavors meld beautifully over hours.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Spatula: Useful for breaking up ground beef during cooking and mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp cumin powder
• 2 Tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Beans and Tomatoes

• 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 30 oz kidney beans (two 15 oz cans), drained and rinsed
• 30 oz diced tomatoes, with their juice
• 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chilis, with their juice
• 30 oz tomato sauce

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sauté for 4-5 minutes. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks until it releases its fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Spices

Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for another 4-5 minutes until tender. Then add minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), diced tomatoes with green chilis (with their juice), and tomato sauce to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

Taste your chili before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm with your favorite toppings!

How to Serve Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Serving Classic Slow Cooker Chili is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various tastes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Top It Off

• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for a creamy texture. Cheddar or Monterey Jack work great.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast to the spicy flavors.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a crunchy and flavorful garnish.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the chili’s heat perfectly.
• Fresh Cilantro: For an herby kick, add chopped cilantro on top before serving.

Pair with Bread

• Cornbread: This classic pairing adds sweetness and texture, perfect for soaking up the chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are excellent for dipping into the chili or for topping it off.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is ideal for mopping up every last drop of chili.

Make It a Meal

• Rice: Serve over rice to make it a heartier dish that balances the flavors.
• Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with chili for a filling and satisfying meal.

How to Perfect Classic Slow Cooker Chili

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Classic Slow Cooker Chili, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use Quality Meat: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option that still packs flavor.
• Brown the Meat First: Browning enhances the beef’s flavor before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste. More chili powder will increase heat!
• Let It Simmer Longer: For richer flavors, let your chili cook longer if time allows.
• Consider Adding Cocoa Powder: A small amount of cocoa powder can deepen the flavor profile without being sweet.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasonings right before serving for the best results.

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Best Side Dishes for Classic Slow Cooker Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Classic Slow Cooker Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet and savory cornbread is a traditional favorite that pairs wonderfully with chili.
2. Guacamole: Fresh guacamole adds creaminess and richness, balancing out the spiciness of the chili.
3. Coleslaw: A cool and crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm chili.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf serves as an excellent base for soaking up chili juices.
5. Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes for a fun twist on serving your chili.
6. Pickled Jalapeños: For those who enjoy extra heat, pickled jalapeños make an excellent spicy side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making classic slow cooker chili can be simple, but there are some pitfalls to watch out for. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the meat: If you cook the ground beef too long in the skillet, it can become tough. Aim for just enough time to brown it before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping or skimping on spices can lead to bland chili. Always taste and adjust your seasonings before serving.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Not all beans and tomatoes are created equal. Choose high-quality canned goods for the best flavor and texture.
• Not allowing enough cooking time: Rushing the cooking process can result in undercooked flavors. Follow the recommended cooking times for optimal results.
• Neglecting customization: Every palate is different. Don’t hesitate to add your favorite ingredients or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Freeze chili in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Classic Slow Cooker Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Classic Slow Cooker Chili special?

This classic slow cooker chili is packed with flavor from homemade seasonings and tender beef, ensuring a hearty meal every time.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a combination of more beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version of classic slow cooker chili.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To increase spice, add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños. For milder flavors, reduce these ingredients according to taste.

What sides go well with Classic Slow Cooker Chili?

Serve your chili with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal that complements its rich flavors.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes! Cooking on high will take approximately 3-4 hours compared to 6-8 hours on low. Just ensure everything is well combined.

Final Thoughts

This classic slow cooker chili recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite toppings or adjusting spices according to your preference. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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